Catalysing Africa’s global agenda: Reflections on UNGA 79

The strength of our world lies in our unity and our collective purpose. This statement resonates deeply as I reflect on the important conversations held during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). A platform where the future of our world is debated and shaped, and for Africa, an arena to champion our collective aspirations.

It was a moment to reflect on our shared priorities, and for Africa, UNGA 79 represented an important juncture in our journey toward sustainable development. Africa’s voice in the global arena remained critical. The discussions on climate change, sustainable development, and global economic cooperation highlighted the interconnectedness of our challenges and underscored the need for collective action. For Africa to thrive, we must be at the heart of these conversations—driving the global agenda, forging meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that our unique needs and opportunities are acknowledged.

Africa’s Opportunity for transformative growth

Africa is rich in resources and talent with immense potential. There is need to accelerate economic development through innovation, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure investment presents an opportunity to create jobs, paving the way for a prosperous future for all Africans. As we invest in education and skills training, we empower our youth to become active contributors to the economy.

Opportunity lies for Africa to take the lead in the equitable energy transition. By developing renewable energy infrastructure, it is addressing climate change and ensuring that our continent benefits from the global push for sustainability.

Africa’s growth and development must be at the heart of the global agenda.

Investing in Impact: A call to action

The future requires strategic investments that go beyond financial capital, one that emphasises long-term value creation and sustainable growth.

Africa’s energy transition is about positioning the continent as a leader in the global economy. Green financing must therefore be central to our development strategies, helping us build resilient, climate-conscious economies that create value for all.

Beyond banking, my passion has always been for entrepreneurship, particularly among Africa’s youth. Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), we have empowered over 10,000 young African entrepreneurs, helping them drive solutions in areas such as food security, waste management, and healthcare.

The Future: Collaborating for a sustainable Africa

The UBA cocktail reception held in New York hosted Global leaders and served as an opportunity to celebrate UBA Group’s 75th Anniversary as a Global Brand with Influence and UBA America’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Collaboration is essential to achieving our development goals. At UBA, we are proud to be at the forefront of this process, leveraging our expertise, resources, and partnerships to ensure that Africa not only participates in the global conversation but leads it.

The challenges we face are significant, but so too are the opportunities. I am confident that with the right partnerships, investments, and strategic vision, Africa will lead the world in shaping a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous global economy.

Tony O. Elumelu is the Chairman United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation